Ukraine crisis proves democracy has failed in Russia, warns expert

THE Ukraine crisis proves Russia has failed to become a democratic nation, a leading expert on international law has said.

Russia's Vladimir Putin could be committing 'one of the worst violations of international law [AP]

Russian President Vladimir Putin has also been warned that if he does seize control of the Crimea region, it would represent "one of the worst violations in international law".

With world leaders discussing possible sanctions in response to Russia's actions over Ukraine, Dr James Summer - Director of the Centre for International Law and Human Rights at Lancaster University - suggested removing Russia from the G8 group of leading nations.

Britain and the US have already halted preparations for a planned June summit in Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi.

He told Express Online: "If Putin does go ahead with taking the Crimea, disbanding the G8 could be a good start.

"Before it was the G7 and Russia were added so they could adapt into a democratic role.

"That whole idea has failed.

"The reality is we cannot see Russia ever becoming a democracy at this present time."

Protestors outside the US embassy in Warsaw, Poland [AP]

However, Dr Summers believes if Western powers are going to stop further aggression from President Putin, they need to make threats they can "stand behind".

He suggested Russia's previous experience of military action in Georgia during 2008, and the lack of Western intervention, may have strengthened their resolve.

He added: "Putin has seen a lot of threats from Western powers in the past, particularly in [relation to] Georgia.

"He now may be thinking 'Why should I pay attention this time?'

"If the West are going to make threats then they should make decisions they can actually go through with and that they can stand behind."

Dr Summers also believe the United Nations [UN] is powerless to stop President Putin, with Russia being very careful "not to show any violent participation" as it tries to widen its sphere of influence in eastern Europe.

"The UN is paralysed to deal with the crisis," he said.

"With Russia as a permanent member of the security council, it has the power to veto decisions.

"However, if Putin does choose to try to annex the Crimea, this is viewed as one of the worst violations in international law.

"The UN charter says you cannot attack your neighbours and having a big international player taking parts of countries is enormously hypocritical."